How to help, and where to get help

As Austinites continue to suffer without power, water and shelter during ongoing cold temperatures, a number of organizations have stepped forward to serve the community. Austin Mutual Aid is raising money to provide shelter for the unhoused, the Austin Area Urban League is raising money for emergency support and Austin Disaster Relief Network is coordinating volunteers to help those impacted by the winter storms in war. In addition, there are a number of places that have compiled resource lists for those looking to donate or get assistance during this disaster. The city of Austin has created a web page gathering information on shelters, energy and water resources, transportation and other concerns. And the office of Council Member Greg Casar continues to update this document with cold-weather resources and information about what is going on.

With a number of simultaneous issues converging during this crisis, the city’s reporting systems have also been overtaxed, with the 311 phone line going down for the second time this week on Wednesday night. Service requests can be submitted to the 311 system online as well. Emergencies can also be reported directly to Austin Energy by calling (512) 322-9100 or through outagemap.austinenergy.com. Water emergencies such as broken pipes can be reported through the Austin Water report form or by calling (512) 972-1000.